Bacon tips and Baked Potato Casserole

If you ever need to fry out a large amount of bacon, try this tip. Put a little water on the bottom pan of your broiler pan. (To keep the grease from burning.) Lay out your bacon on the top broiler pan (the one with holes) It is okay if the pieces are touching. Bake it in the oven at 350 degrees. The length of time will vary considerably depending how thick your bacon slices are and how well done you prefer your bacon. I start checking in 15 minutes. If the bacon is basically cooked but you wish it to be crisper, you can place it under the broiler for a few minutes. Since I started this method, I haven't had as much burnt bacon as using a skillet or consumed so many paper towels as in the microwave. Right now when we have fresh lettuce and are eating lots of salads, it is handy having bacon ready in the fridge.

Need more uses for bacon? Here is one of our all time favorites!!!

Baked Potato Casserole

5 pounds potatoes, cooked and cubed
1 pound sliced bacon, cooked and crumbled
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 large onion, finely chopped
1 cup mayonnaise
1 cup (8 oz) sour cream
1 T minced chives
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper

Combine potatoes and bacon. In another bowl, combine the remaining ingredients. Add to potato mixture and toss gently. Bake in greased dish, uncovered, at 325 for 1 hour or until bubbly and light brown.

This also works well for the crockpot. Put it on low for 2-3 hours.